Manager, Package Engineer

Ocean Spray; Lakeville (MN); Hybrid; USD 116,300 - 159,940; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Complete insurance package

401(k) with company matching

Flexible scheduling options

Vacation up to three weeks

Career development opportunities

Tuition/Education assistance

Job summary

Ocean Spray is hiring a Manager, Package Engineer to lead packaging innovation and development efforts. The role involves managing a team, developing strategies, and ensuring compliance with standards. Candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Science or related field, along with at least 7 years of experience in the packaging industry.

This hybrid position is based in Lakeville, MA, with opportunities for remote work. The salary ranges from $116,300 to $159,940 annually, along with comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in packaging development in the food or beverage industry.
• At least 2 years of experience in a leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of packaging materials and manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Package Engineering team.
• Develop and execute packaging strategies.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure packaging solutions meet requirements.
• Oversee design, testing, and validation of packaging.

Skills

Packaging development

Project management

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Science or related field

Master’s degree (preferred)

Tools

CAD software

Job description

Position Overview

Ocean Spray is hiring a Manager, Package Engineer. Our company is a farmer‑owned co‑op that values innovation and collaboration. The Manager will lead packaging innovation and development efforts in the food and beverage sector, driving the design, development, and implementation of packaging solutions that align with brand strategy, sustainability goals, and operational efficiency.

Location and Work Arrangement

Hybrid role based at Ocean Spray corporate headquarters in Lakeville, MA. Mondays and Fridays are remote.

A Day in the Life

• Lead and manage the Package Engineering team, providing technical direction, mentorship, and performance management.
• Develop and execute packaging strategies that support product innovation, cost optimization, and sustainability initiatives.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with Marketing, Operations, Quality, Procurement, and R&D to ensure packaging solutions meet business and regulatory requirements.
• Oversee the design, testing, and validation of primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging for new and existing products.
• Manage packaging development timelines and budgets, ensuring on‑time and on‑cost delivery of projects.
• Evaluate and implement new packaging materials, technologies, and equipment to enhance product performance and shelf appeal.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, regulatory, and environmental standards.
• Partner with suppliers and co‑manufacturers to drive continuous improvement and innovation in packaging.
• Monitor industry trends and emerging technologies to maintain a competitive edge.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Science, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in packaging development within the food, beverage, or broader CPG industry.
• At least 2 years of experience in a leadership or managerial role.
• Strong knowledge of packaging materials (plastics, paperboard, glass, metal, flexible films) and manufacturing processes.
• Experience with packaging testing protocols, shelf‑life studies, and regulatory compliance (FDA, USDA, etc.).
• Proficiency in CAD software and packaging design tools.
• Familiarity with sustainability practices and life cycle analysis (LCA) in packaging.
• Excellent project management, organizational, and communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Ability to lead cross‑functional teams and influence stakeholders at all levels.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree.
• Beneficial certifications or specialized knowledge in packaging technology.

Physical Requirements

Requires the ability to travel by plane on a frequent basis.

Salary

Annual Salary: $116,300 - $159,940

Benefits

• Complete insurance package on Day‑1, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Health savings account and flexible spending account.
• Life and accident insurance.
• Employee assistance program and telehealth services.
• 1:1 health coaching and supportive benefits for all stages of life.
• 401(k) with up to 6% company matching and additional discretionary match at year‑end.
• Short‑Term Incentive/Performance bonuses.
• Flexible scheduling options.
• Vacation up to three weeks (pro‑rated for first year).
• Holiday pay for 12 holidays.
• Career development and growth opportunities.
• Tuition/Education assistance and LinkedIn Learning access.
• Scholarship programs for children of employees.
• Parental leave and Bright Horizons Family Solutions (back‑up care, tutoring, etc.).
• Adoption assistance and bereavement leave.
• Up to $300 fitness and $300 massage reimbursement.
• Employee appreciation events and discounts.
• Charitable giving program.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status. For MA applicants it is unlawful to require a lie detector test. Any employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.